HMC opens General Hospital to support intravenous treatment needs of cancer patients

Doha, Qatar - The Hamad Medical Corporation has inaugurated a specialized clinic at Hamad General Hospital to cater to cancer patients requiring frequent intravenous treatments. This clinic provides tailored assessments to determine the most suitable method of care for each individual.

The clinic unites oncology and vascular surgery teams from the National Center for Cancer Care and Research and the Vascular Surgery Department at Hamad General Hospital. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive understanding of each patient's requirements concerning intravenous treatments, facilitating informed planning and continuous treatment throughout the patient's journey.

Dr. Mohammed Salem Al Hassan, Medical Director and CEO of the National Center for Cancer Care and Research and Chairman of Cancer Services at Hamad Medical Corporation, emphasized the hospital's commitment to expanding cancer care services to address patients' varied needs during treatment. The clinic's establishment is part of these endeavors, offering specialized care to tackle a prevalent challenge many patients face during treatment.

Dr. Al-Harith Al Khater, Head of Oncology, Palliative Care, and Urgent Care Services at the National Center for Cancer Care and Research, highlighted that some cancer patients necessitate intravenous treatments over extended durations, with their requirements evolving as the treatment progresses. The clinic allows medical teams to evaluate these evolving needs early on and incorporate them into the patient's treatment plan, thereby streamlining the treatment process and addressing potential obstacles.

Dr. Hassan Ali Saud Al-Thani, Head of Trauma, Vascular, and General Surgery Department at Hamad General Hospital, noted that certain patients may encounter difficulties sustaining suitable venous access during frequent intravenous treatments. Early assessment helps identify the optimal options for each case, based on the patient's individual needs and the nature of their treatment.

A patient who has utilized the clinic shared their experience: "I once felt apprehensive about my chemotherapy sessions due to the challenges in accessing my vein. This sometimes entailed multiple attempts to insert the needle, causing pain and discomfort. Upon referral to the clinic, the team, along with the Vascular Surgery team, attentively listened to my concerns and clarified the most suitable option for my condition.

Their clear explanations provided me with reassurance. Once the appropriate catheter was inserted for my treatment, taking medications became more manageable and comfortable."